Employment rates for males and females across six countries in 1995 and 2005

The bar chart illustrates changes in employment rates for males and females across six nations between 1995 and 2005. Overall, it is evident that employment figures rose in every country for both genders, although males consistently recorded higher rates than their female counterparts throughout the decade.

In 1995, male employment was highest in Iceland at 71%, followed by Switzerland at 65%. By 2005, Iceland remained the leader for male employment, reaching a peak of 83%, while Switzerland followed at 78%. The UK, New Zealand, and the USA all saw male employment rise to 72%, 71%, and 71% respectively by 2005. Australia experienced the most significant growth for males, climbing from 56% in 1995 to 69% a decade later.

Regarding female employment, Switzerland recorded the highest rates in both years, increasing from 56% to 68%. Conversely, New Zealand and Australia started with the lowest female employment rates in 1995 at 25% and 27% respectively. By 2005, these figures had improved to 41% and 39%. The UK and USA also showed notable growth, with female employment reaching 62% and 61% respectively by the end of the period.